Newtown Local Area Commander, Superintendent Gavin Wood, praised the officer's actions. He said the officer was on his way to work when he saw the home on fire.

"He has literally kicked in the front door of a burning building, entered and saved this couple. We are fortunate to have police who see trouble, respond and - without a thought for themselves -- save lives," Superintendent Wood said.

An off-duty police officer has kicked in the door of a house on fire at Sydenham to rescue an elderly couple https://t.co/ej7HX8IggF